Apparatus and Method for Securing an Enclosure
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box. In certain embodiments, the apparatus has a clamping member that fits over a wall of a meter box and a lock housing that locks to the clamping member after a box cover has been installed thereby securing the cover to the box. Further embodiments relate to a clamping member and a lock housing wherein the clamping member generally comprises a clamp, clamp actuating member, and fastening shelf, and wherein the clamp actuating member may comprise a lever or threaded member to attach the clamping member to a wall of a meter box base. The box cover is secured to the meter box base when the clamping member is secured to the wall and used in combination with the lock housing and a locking shaft.
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This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 12/378,879, filed Feb. 20, 2009, which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 11/705,653, filed Feb. 12, 2007, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/823,285, filed Apr. 13, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,176,376, issued Feb. 13, 2007, and also a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 11/434,665, filed May 16, 2006, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/681,200, filed May 16, 2005, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/793,104, filed Apr. 19, 2006, and also a continuation-in-part of International Application No. PCT/US2006/018783, filed May 16, 2006.
All written material, figures, content and other disclosure in each of the above-referenced applications is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONElectrical service providers generally deliver electricity to their customers via power lines buried underground or distributed along poles or towers overhead. The provider's power lines are usually distributed from a power generation station to numerous sets of customer lines, so that customers can then use the power to satisfy their various electrical needs. To measure delivered power so that customers can be billed in proportion to their usage, service providers typically terminate their power lines at a customer's home or business facility through a metered socket box, various designs for which are well known.
A meter box is generally used by electric utility companies, however the invention herein may be used with other utility service enclosures in the gas, water, cable, TV utility industries or with enclosures generally in various other industries as well.
An example of one previously known meter box consists of two sets of electrical posts, with a provider's transmission lines being connected to one set of posts, and the customer's service lines to the other set. In order to measure the amount of electricity a customer uses, the meter box is configured to accept a watthour meter or another electricity usage measurement device which, when plugged into the socket box, permits transmission of electricity from the provider to the customer and allows the amount of transmitted electricity to be accurately measured, so that the provider can charge the customer for power usage at an appropriate rate.
Various designs and uses for watthour meters are also well known, and all such designs and uses are incorporated into the teachings of the present invention. The present invention is also applicable in situations where the customer's service lines are routed from the meter box to a breaker box so that electricity can be distributed to multiple service locations using additional sets of electrical lines or wires.
Presently, there are two common types of meter socket boxes, each distinguished by the manner in which the meter is secured in place once it has been plugged into an electrical socket disposed in the meter box. For example, a ringed type meter box fitted with a flanged front cover is known, within which a watthour meter is disposed so that a head portion of the meter passes out through a flanged opening in the front cover. In this configuration, the meter is generally held in place using an annular, lockable sealing ring.
Also known is a ringless type meter box, in which the box cover secures the meter in place. For example, a ringless type meter box may include a box cover and a box base. Referring now to prior art
The meter box cover 30 is typically secured in place by means of a small latch assembly, which functions in structural cooperation with a complementary latch-receiving member disposed on the meter box or base 10. The meter box cover 30 is used to secure the meter 20 to the electrical socket (not shown), so that completion of an electrical circuit is ensured, and the meter is reliably prevented from falling out of the meter box socket.
The meter box cover 30 also prevents unauthorized persons from tampering with the meter. For example, some customers have attempted to bypass the meter, so that unmeasured electricity could be used free of charge. Also, service providers are sometimes forced to disconnect service to customers, for example, due to non-payment of monthly bills. In this event, a locked meter box cover helps prevent a customer from entering the meter box and reconnecting electrical service. However, in instances where the small latch assembly on the meter box fails to provide sufficient security for preventing unauthorized access to the meter and meter box socket, a sturdier, more tamper resistant solution is required.
There are presently only a few commonly used security devices for securing meter box covers to socket boxes. One type requires an installer to drill or punch a hole in the meter box prior to installation of a fastening device. However, some installers are independent contractors rather than employees of the companies that own the meter boxes, and thus drilling or punching a starter hole in the box is sometimes undesirable. Also, drilling takes additional time and adds more steps to the installation, each of which could be avoided if drilling were not required.
To overcome these shortcomings, there are also locks that can be installed on ringless meter socket boxes that do not require drilling or punching a hole in the meter box. Several examples of patents which disclose attempts to solve some of the above problems are set forth as follows.
The Inner-Tite Jiffy Lock™ or “IT Lock,” shown in U.S. Pat. No. D-463,248, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,763,691 to Rafferty, entitled “Meter Box Lock Assembly,” is directed to lock assembly for use in combination with an electric meter box or other like enclosure having a bottom, a side wall, and a cover which may be opened to gain access to the interior of the box, and which when closed, overlaps an upper edge of the side wall. The lock assembly includes a bracket having first and second mutually spaced flanges integrally joined by an intermediate web. A jaw is mechanically interengaged with and carried by the bracket for movement between its flanges. The bracket is configured for removable mounting on the side wall, with its intermediate web interposed between the cover and the upper edge of the side wall, and with the first flange and the jaw respectively located adjacent exterior and interior surfaces of the side wall. The jaw is urged towards the first flange to clamp the side wall therebetween, and a cap is secured to the bracket. The cap has a lip configured and dimensioned to overlap and maintain the cover in a closed position. This reference is incorporated by reference herein.
The McGard Intimidator Sidewinder-Lock™ shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,742,365 to Sullivan et al., entitled “Ringless Meter Lock,” discloses a locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a clip bracket adapted to engage a wall of the box frame, a lock body adapted to latch to the clip bracket and engage the box cover, a locking member carried by the clip bracket and adapted to clamp the clip bracket to the box wall when the locking member is in a clamping position, and a pivotable actuating lever adapted to actuate the locking member into the clamping position. The locking member and the actuating lever can be implemented as a two-piece system comprising first and second pivoting members. Alternatively, the locking member and the actuating lever can be integrally formed as a one-piece system. The locking mechanism is capable of multiple mounting positions on the box without drilling, and uses a spring-loaded plunger assembly that allows for quick, keyless, slam installation. This reference is incorporated by reference herein.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,946,143 to Rafferty, et al., entitled “Universal Box Lock,” is directed to a universal box lock for securing a meter box including a first clamping means, a second clamping means operatively connected to the first clamping means. The second clamping means being movable relative to the first clamping means. The box lock also includes a biasing means for urging the second clamping means toward the first clamping means to secure the box lock to a wall of a meter box placed between the first and second clamping means. Moreover, the box lock includes a body portion, which selectively engages and secures the first and second clamping means to a meter box wall. The first clamping means includes an aperture configured to allow a portion of the second clamping means to extend through the aperture facilitating the attachment of the inventive box lock to a side wall or a bottom wall of a meter box.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,976,373 to Sullivan et al., entitled “Ringless Meter Lock,” discloses a locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a clip bracket adapted to engage a wall of the box frame, a lock body adapted to latch to the clip bracket and engage the box cover, a locking member carried by the clip bracket and adapted to clamp the clip bracket to the box wall when the locking member is in a clamping position, and a pivotable actuating lever adapted to actuate the locking member into the clamping position. The locking member and the actuating lever can be implemented as a two-piece system comprising first and second pivoting members. Alternatively, the locking member and the actuating lever can be integrally formed as a one-piece system. The locking mechanism is capable of multiple mounting positions on the box without drilling, and uses a spring-loaded plunger assembly that allows for a quick, keyless, slam installation.
(It should be noted that any patent, publication or other information referred to above or herein is not intended to constitute an admission that such patent, publication or other information is in fact “material” or “prior art” for the present invention unless specifically designated as such).
There is, therefore, a need for a locking apparatus, system, and method for securing at least one structure or a plurality of structures, to secure a utility service enclosure or enclosure generally, and there remains a need for a meter box security that is particularly adapted to resist tampering and which reliably prevents a box cover from being tampered with and removed from a secured meter box. There is also a need for a meter box security apparatus that offers even greater security for preventing unauthorized entry into a meter box than is known. There is also a need for a reinforced meter box security device being suitably rigid to withstand tampering forces and unwanted deformation. There is a further need for a clamping member adapted to resist prying and tampering forces and unwanted sliding or movement of the clamping member in addition to other needs as noted herein.
Those of skill in the art will appreciate the present invention which addresses the above needs and other significant needs the solution to which are discussed hereinafter.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONIn an example embodiment of the invention, an apparatus is provided for resisting tampering with a meter box, the meter box comprising a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of walls comprises a side wall comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, and an angled portion disposed between the upper portion and lower portion of the side wall, the apparatus including at least a clamping member comprising a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member adapted for pivotable movement outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises a grip flange, and including a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member, and including a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, and wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, and wherein at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange, and wherein the apparatus further includes at least a lock housing comprising a second securing means.
Another example embodiment of the invention provides a security apparatus adapted for use with a watthour meter box that can be readily and securely attached to the wall of a watthour meter box base.
A further example embodiment of the invention relates to providing additional security to a watthour meter box.
Another example embodiment of the invention is to secure the watthour meter box lid to the meter box base.
Another example embodiment of the invention is to provide a watthour meter box security apparatus that helps prevent unauthorized watthour meter box lid removal from the watthour meter box base.
A further example embodiment of the invention is to provide a watthour meter box security apparatus that can be installed without any tools.
One other example embodiment of the invention is to provide a watthour meter box security apparatus that can be attached to the wall of watthour meter box base.
Another example embodiment of the invention is to provide a watthour meter box security apparatus that will not interfere with dangerous components inside the meter box.
A further example embodiment of the invention is to provide a watthour meter security apparatus that will not interfere with the normal operation of the lid.
Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box so as to address the needs as described above.
According to one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box is provided, the apparatus comprising a clamping member having a clamp, a clamp actuating member, and a fastening shelf having a first securing means; and a lock housing having a second securing means.
According to a further embodiment of the invention, there is also provided a method for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box including disposing a clamping member having a clamp, a clamp actuating member, and a fastening shelf in proximity with a lock housing, and then locking the lock housing onto the clamping member using a fastening member.
Another example embodiment of the present invention includes at least a locking bracket and a lock housing. The locking bracket includes at least a clamping member, fastening lever, and compression member. In an alternative embodiment, the locking bracket further includes at least a flexural member.
The lock housing generally includes at least a lock body or member incorporating a flange. The flange preferably has a generally perpendicular orientation with respect the lock housing. In one example embodiment, the lock housing has a unitary configuration. The locking bracket is adapted to be attached to a portion of a wall of the watthour meter box and to receive the lock housing after the lid of the watthour meter box is in place.
An example embodiment includes at least a shaft-style locking device cooperatively configured for securing the lock housing to the locking bracket so as to prevent removal of the meter box lid from the meter box base. In an alternative embodiment, the lock housing may be configured for use with any locking device suitable for securing the lock housing to the locking bracket so as to prevent removal of the meter box lid.
In another embodiment, a locking device for securing the lid of a watthour meter box to a watthour meter box base includes at least: a latch assembly and a lock housing member, the latch assembly adapted to affix to a wall of a watthour meter box base, the latch assembly including a bracket member and a lever member, a first bracket portion disposed on the bracket member adapted to pivotably carry the lever member allowing rotational motion of the lever member about an axis located generally perpendicular to the planar face of the first bracket portion, a portion of the lever member adapted to bear against a wall of the meter box base thus trapping the wall between a second bracket portion disposed on the bracket member, a third bracket portion disposed on the bracket member adapted to be received by and affixed to the lock housing member, a flange disposed on the lock housing member adapted to secure a meter box lid to a meter box base.
In one example embodiment, a method for securing a lid to a watthour meter box having an interior is provided. The method includes at least: attaching a locking bracket to a wall of the watthour meter box; installing the lid over at least a portion of the bracket; and securing a locking housing to the bracket to prevent removal of the lid. In one example embodiment, the step of attaching the locking bracket to the wall of the watthour meter box is performed from a position substantially outside the interior of the watthour meter box. In this way, the bracket is substantially manipulable without needing to place any portion of one's hand or an object in the interior of the watthour meter box.
In another example embodiment, attaching means may be used for mounting the bracket to the wall of the watthour meter box without having to reach into the interior of the box. A latch member may be lever-type structure and a member engageable with a meter box wall. Various locking means may be used to secure the lid to the watthour meter box.
In another example embodiment the locking bracket includes at least a body and only one moveable member. In another embodiment, the moveable member is pivotable with respect to the body. In another embodiment, the moveable member preferably further includes at least a compression member.
In an example embodiment, the moveable member includes at least an actuating lever which is moveable (or for example, pivotable) in a plane that is substantially parallel to the plane of the wall to which the locking bracket is being attached. The actuating lever ideally is configured with a compression member at a distal end of the actuating lever such that the compression makes arcuate (or sweeping rotational) engagement with the wall when force is applied to the actuating lever. The actuating lever is ideally configured with at least one elongated member which serves as a moment arm to facilitate engagement.
In another example embodiment, the locking bracket includes at least a reversible design configuration. That is, the locking bracket may be manufactured in a first design configuration such that the actuating lever may be rotated in a functional clockwise direction to attach the bracket or in a second design configuration such that the actuating lever may be rotated in a functional counter-clockwise direction to attach the bracket. The first or second design configuration may be employed as desired for use in situations where there are limited locations for attaching the locking bracket or to foster ease of use by a right- or left-handed person.
Another example embodiment of the present invention includes at least a locking bracket for use with a lock housing. The locking bracket includes at least a clamping member, fastening lever, and compression member. The locking bracket is configured for mounting a lock housing to capture at least a portion of the lid of a watthour meter box. A locking shaft is adapted to be installed in the lock housing so as to secure the lid in place on the watthour meter box.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lever end is in functional cooperation with a portion of a lock housing mounted to a portion of the clamping member such that the lock prevents rotation of the lever to an open position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lever end is in functional cooperation with a portion of a meter box lid such that the lid prevents rotation of the lever to an open position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lever end is at least partially outside the interior of the meter box in a mounting position and at least partially inside the interior of the meter box in a locked position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus further includes the meter box.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus further includes a locking structure adapted for functional cooperation with the clamping member for securing a meter box lid to a meter box base.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the apparatus including at least: a clamping member, wherein the clamping member further includes a clamp, a clamp actuating member, and a fastening shelf having a first securing means; and a lock housing having a second securing means.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp further includes opposed, substantially parallel walls on which a pivoting member is disposed.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp further includes opposed, substantially parallel walls on which a pivoting member is disposed and the clamp actuating member is captured between the opposed, substantially parallel walls of the clamp when the clamp actuating member is disposed in a fully secured position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the first securing means further includes a portion of the fastening shelf through which an aperture has been formed.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the second securing means includes a portion of the lock housing through which an aperture has been formed.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the first securing means further includes a portion of the fastening shelf through which an aperture has been formed and the aperture is an approximately cylindrical aperture.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the second securing means includes a portion of the lock housing through which an aperture has been formed and the aperture is an approximately cylindrical aperture.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a plunger type fastener.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a plunger type fastener, wherein the plunger type fastener further includes a retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp actuating member rotates about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member on a body portion of the clamping member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp actuating member rotates about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member on a body portion of the clamping member and one end of the clamp actuating member receives an input force and rotates about an axis established by disposition of the engagement member disposed on the clamping member, and then translates a mechanical force to an opposite end of the clamp actuating member that is greater than the input force.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp actuating member has a tactile feedback indicator for indicating when the clamp actuating member has been fully rotated into a secure position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp is disposed between the clamp actuating member and the fastening shelf.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp further includes a stopping member for stopping a rotational sweep of the clamp actuating member after the clamp actuating member is disposed in a fully secured position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamp imparts a spring force that holds the clamp actuating member in a fully secured position.
Another example embodiment of a method is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the method including at least: disposing a clamping member over a wall portion of the meter box, wherein the clamping member includes a clamp, a clamp actuating member, and a fastening shelf having a first securing means; disposing a lock housing in functional cooperation with the clamping member, wherein the lock housing includes a second securing means; and securing the clamping member using the lock housing.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing a fastening shelf so that the first securing means includes a body portion of the fastening shelf through which an aperture has been formed.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing a fastening shelf so that the first securing means includes a body portion of the fastening shelf through which an aperture has been formed and the method further includes disposing a lock housing so that the second securing means includes a lock housing through which an aperture has been formed.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing a fastening shelf so that the first securing means includes a body portion of the fastening shelf through which an aperture has been formed, and the method further includes disposing a lock housing so that the second securing means includes a lock housing through which an aperture has been formed, and the method further includes disposing a fastening shelf and a lock housing so that the first securing means and the second securing means comprise approximately cylindrical apertures.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing a plunger type fastener.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing a plunger type fastener, and further includes disposing a plunger type fastener, and then securing the plunger type fastener by means of a retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes rotating the clamp actuating member about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member disposed on a body portion of the clamping member.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes rotating the clamp actuating member about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member disposed on a body portion of the clamping member, and further includes: delivering an input force to one end of the clamp actuating member so that the clamp actuating member rotates about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member on the clamping member; and translating the input force into a mechanical clamping force that is greater than the input force.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing a clamp actuating member having a tactile feedback indicator to indicate when the clamp actuating member has been fully rotated into a secure position.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing the clamp between the clamp actuating member and the fastening shelf.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing the clamp between the clamp actuating member and the fastening shelf, and furthering includes disposing a clamp having a stopping member, wherein the stopping member stops a rotational sweep of the clamp actuating member after the clamp actuating member is disposed in a fully secured position.
In another example embodiment of the method, the method further includes disposing the clamp between the clamp actuating member and the fastening shelf, and furthering includes disposing a clamp imparting a spring force that holds the clamp actuating member in a fully secured position.
Another example embodiment of a method is provided for securing a ringless socket box lid to a socket box, the method including at least: disposing a base support structure in proximity with a wall portion of the socket box, wherein the base support structure includes a bracket and a fastening lever; securing the base support structure to the wall portion of the socket box by hanging the base support structure over the wall portion and then rotating the fastening lever toward a fully secured position; installing a socket box lid, wherein the socket box lid is only fully installable if the fastening lever has been rotated completely into a fully secured position; and affixing a lock housing to the base support structure, wherein the lock housing holds the socket box lid securely in place.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box being defined by a plurality of side walls, the apparatus including at least: a clamping member attachable to one of the plurality of side walls; a fastening lever; and a pivotal connection between the clamping member and the fastening lever, the pivotal connection including an axis of rotation extending through the pivotal connection, the axis of rotation extending into at least one of the box cover or the one of the plurality of side walls when the box cover is secured to the meter box.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box, wherein the portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box includes a planar surface.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box, wherein the portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box includes a planar surface, and the planar surface is rotatable with respect to the one of the plurality of side walls.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box, wherein the portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box is arcuate.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box, and further including a resilient compression member secured to the portion of the fastening lever member adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a biasing member secured to at least one of the clamping member or the fastening lever.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the clamping member includes a first planar surface and the fastening lever includes a second planar surface, the pivotal connection pivotally interconnecting the first planar surface to the second planar surface.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a lever end, the lever end surface being pivotally moveable between a mounting and a locked position without entering into an interior of the meter box.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a lever end, the lever end surface being pivotally moveable between a mounting and a locked position without entering into an interior of the meter box, wherein the lever end is in functional cooperation with a portion of a lock housing mounted to a portion of the clamping member such that the lock prevents rotation of the lever to an open position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a lever end, the lever end surface being pivotally moveable between a mounting and a locked position without entering into an interior of the meter box, wherein the lever end is in functional cooperation with a portion of a meter box lid such that the lid prevents rotation of the lever to an open position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a lever end, the lever end surface being pivotally moveable between a mounting and a locked position without entering into an interior of the meter box, wherein the lever end is at least partially outside the interior of the meter box in a mounting position and at least partially inside the interior of the meter box in a locked position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes the meter box.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a locking structure adapted for functional cooperation with the clamping member for securing a meter box lid to a meter box base.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box being defined by a plurality of side walls, the apparatus including at least: a clamping member attachable to one of the plurality of side walls; a fastening lever with a planar engagement surface adapted to bear against the one of the plurality of side walls of the meter box; and a pivotal connection between the clamping member and the fastening lever whereby the planar engagement surface rotates with respect to the one of the plurality of side walls.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a compression member secured to the planar engagement surface.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes a biasing member secured to at least one of the clamping member or the fastening lever.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes an axis of rotation extending through the pivotal connection, the axis of rotation extending into the one of the plurality of side walls.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further includes an axis of rotation extending through the pivotal connection, the axis of rotation extending into the one of the plurality of side walls, wherein the axis of rotation is at least approximately orthogonal to the one of the plurality of side walls.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box being defined by a plurality of side walls, the apparatus including at least: a clamping member attachable to one of the plurality of side walls, the clamping member including a first planar surface; a fastening lever including a lever end, a second planar surface secured to the lever end, and a wall engagement surface secured to the second planar surface; and a pivotal connection between the first planar surface and the second planar surface, the clamping member and the fastening lever being pivotally connected together for relative movement between a mounting position and a locked position in response to force applied to the lever end, and being configured such that in the locked position, the wall engagement surface engages the one of the plurality of side walls.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the pivotal connection includes an axis of rotation extending through the pivotal connection, the axis of rotation extending into at least one of the box cover or the one of the plurality of side walls when the box cover is secured to the meter box.
Another example embodiment of a locking device is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box including a side wall, the locking device including at least: a lock housing member; a flange disposed on the lock housing member adapted to secure the box cover to the meter box; and a latch assembly adapted to affix to the side wall of the meter box, the latch assembly including a bracket member and a lever member, a first bracket portion disposed on the bracket member adapted to pivotably carry the lever member allowing rotational motion of the lever member about an axis located generally perpendicular to a planar face of the first bracket portion, a second bracket portion disposed on the bracket member, a third bracket portion disposed on the bracket member adapted to be received by and affixed to the lock housing member, a portion of the lever member adapted to bear against the side wall of the meter box thus trapping the side wall between the second bracket portion and the portion of the lever member adapted to bear against the side wall of the meter box.
Another example embodiment of a locking device is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box including a side wall, including at least: a bracket mountable to the side wall; and a latching member for securing the bracket to the wall of the meter box without having to reach into the interior of the box.
In another example embodiment of the locking device, the latching member is substantially manipulable without needing to place any portion of one's hand or an object into the interior of the meter box.
Another example embodiment of a method is provided for securing a lid to a watthour meter box having an interior defined by at least one wall, the at least one wall including a flange extending inwardly to the at least one wall such that a lower side of the flange faces away from the lid when the lid is secured to the watthour meter box, the method including at least: attaching a locking bracket to the at least one wall such that at least a portion of the locking assembly engages the lower side of the flange; installing the lid over at least a portion of the locking bracket; and securing a locking housing to the locking bracket to prevent removal of the lid.
In another example embodiment of the method, the step of attaching further includes moving a lever such that the moving is performed from a position substantially outside the interior of the watthour meter box.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box being defined by at least one side wall, the apparatus including at least: a clamping member attachable to the at least one side wall; a fastening lever; and a resilient compression member carried by the fastening lever, the resilient compression member being adapted to bear against the at least one side wall.
Another example embodiment of a method is provided for manufacturing an apparatus for securing a box cover to a meter box, the meter box being defined by a plurality of side walls, the method including at least: providing a clamping member attachable to one of the plurality of side walls; and selectively securing a fastening lever to the clamping member in at least one of two different design configurations, the first design configuration requiring that the fastening lever is mounted for rotation in a first rotational direction to fasten the clamping member to the one of the plurality of side walls, and the second design configuration requiring that the fastening lever is mounted for rotation in a second rotational direction to fasten the clamping member to the one of the plurality of side walls.
In another example embodiment of the method, the first rotational direction is opposite to the second rotational direction.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus is provided for securing a cover to an enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a locking bracket, wherein the locking bracket further includes an engagement member and a mounting member, the engagement member including a biased engagement flange and being biased to engage a structural portion of the enclosure, the locking bracket further including a fastening shelf being connected to the mounting member, the fastening shelf including a first securing means; and a lock housing including a second securing means.
Another example embodiment of the invention relates to utilizing higher carbon steel that can be through hardened and tempered to provide significant structural strength and, thereby, improve the ability to impart a high clamping force on a side wall of an enclosure.
One other example embodiment of the invention relates to providing an extended handle to the improve the ability to impart a high clamping force when performed manually.
Another example embodiment of the invention includes at least a slot in the handle to enable an extension tool to be used to facilitate imparting a high clamping force.
Another example embodiment of the invention includes a screw to facilitate manually imparting a high clamping force using one hand and to enable the clamping to be readily adjusted clamping force as desired to accommodate a greater variety of box geometries.
In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided for resisting tampering with a meter box, the meter box comprising a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of walls comprises a side wall comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, and an angled portion disposed between the upper portion and lower portion of the side wall, the apparatus comprising: a clamping member comprising a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member adapted for pivotable movement outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises a grip flange; a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member; a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, and wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, and wherein at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange; and a lock housing comprising a second securing means.
A further example embodiment provides the shelf flange having a given width, and wherein the at least a portion of the grip flange comprises first and second protuberances selectively spaced apart wider than the width of the shelf flange.
A further example embodiment provides that the fastening shelf member further comprises a bracket flange, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises first and second support panels disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the bracket flange.
Another example embodiment provides that the first and second panels comprise at least first and second respective engagement surfaces adapted to engage the upper portion of the wall, and wherein the at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to engage the angled portion of the wall, wherein the surrounding member is adapted to simultaneously distribute a plurality of clamping engagement forces to the wall.
A further example embodiment provides that at least a portion of the side wall is flexed when clamped between the surrounding member and the fastening shelf member.
A further example embodiment provides that at least a portion of the clamping member is reinforced by through hardening.
Another example embodiment provides that the second securing member comprises a lock receptacle comprising a rotation restricting stop surface.
Another example embodiment provides that the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is adapted to receive a barrel lock comprising a body having a rotation restricting stop surface cooperative with the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle to prevent rotation of a barrel lock.
Another example embodiment further comprises a rotationally-actuated barrel lock.
Another example embodiment provides that the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is removeable from the second securing member.
Another example embodiment provides that the clamp actuating member comprises a rotationally actuated threaded member.
Another example embodiment provides that the bracket comprises a body portion, the body portion comprising at least two flanges defining a space therebetween.
Another example embodiment provides that the surrounding member comprises at least one engagement surface being disposed substantially outside the space defined by the at least two flanges.
Another example embodiment provides that the surrounding member further comprises first and second support panels first adapted to carry the grip flange and wherein first and second support panels and the grip flange are adapted for pivotable movement substantially outside the space defined by the at least two flanges.
Another example embodiment further comprises a plunger type fastener.
Another example embodiment further comprises a plunger type fastener, and then securing the plunger type fastener by means of a retaining member.
In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided for resisting tampering with a meter box, the meter box comprising a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of walls comprises a side wall comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, and an angled portion disposed between the upper portion and lower portion of the side wall, the apparatus comprising: a clamping member comprising a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member which adapted to be mounted outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, wherein the pivotable surrounding member and wherein the pivotable surrounding member further comprises a grip surface 1044; a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the pivotable surrounding member; a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, and wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, and wherein at least a portion of the grip surface is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset or directly opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange; and a lock housing comprising a second securing means.
In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided for resisting tampering with a meter box, the meter box comprising a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, the apparatus comprising: a clamping member comprising a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member adapted for pivotable movement outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises a grip flange; a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member; a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, and wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, and wherein at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset, or alternatively direct, opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange; and a lock housing comprising a second securing means.
In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided for securing a box cover to a meter box, the apparatus comprising: a clamping member, wherein said clamping member comprises a body portion, a clamp comprising a surrounding member which surrounds at least a part of the body portion, and wherein the surrounding member comprises a pivoting member comprising an engagement surface, a threaded clamp actuating member disposed on the body portion and being adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member, a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, wherein the fastening shelf comprises an upper flange and a lower flange, the lower flange comprising a force-bearing member having a given width; and wherein the engagement surface comprises protuberances selectively spaced apart wider than the width of the force-bearing member; and a lock housing comprising a second securing means.
Another example embodiment provides an effective system for readily attaching the clamping member to box wall without having to instead drill into the side wall of the box to attach a clamping member and secure the cover to the box. In addition, another example embodiment, a method is provided for resisting tampering with a meter box, wherein the box includes at least a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of walls comprises a side wall comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, and an angled portion disposed proximately between the upper portion and lower portion of the side wall, and the method includes at least: mounting a clamping member on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member includes at least a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member adapted for pivotable movement outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises a grip flange, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member. In the above example embodiment, the clamping member further comprises a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, wherein at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange. The method further includes at least: actuating the clamping member in order to transmit a force to the side wall; opposing the actuating of the clamping member, wherein a clamping force is transmitted to the side wall; (and in some embodiments, concentrating at least some of the clamping force transmitted to the side wall); offsetting the opposing of the clamping force transmitted to the side wall; providing a lock housing comprising a second securing means; disposing the lock housing in functional cooperation with the clamping member, and securing the clamping member using the lock housing. It should be noted that in a further example embodiment, the clamping member and housing may be mounted and installed from a location entirely outside of the meter box. The method may also include interlocking the clamping member fastening shelf and lock housing with a suitable lock (such as a barrel lock, plunger lock, keyless insertion lock (such as that provided in application Ser. No. 13/070,456, incorporated by reference herein) to secure the cover to the meter box base. The method may further comprise rotating the clamp actuating member about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member disposed on a body portion of said clamping member, which in some embodiments may be a lever (or toggle) or a threaded clamp actuating member. In another embodiment, the clamp actuating member further comprises a threaded drive member disposed proximal the first end of the body portion of the bracket and further comprising rotating the threaded drive member about a rotational axis, and further comprising driving the pivotable surrounding member about a pivotal axis established by disposition of the grip surface on the pivotable surrounding member, and then further comprising disposing the grip surface, wherein the location of gripping against the side wall is established by disposition of the grip surface on the pivotable surrounding member by a distance R1 to provide a configuration such that the moment arm of the grip surface with respect to the bracket members may be maximized. In another embodiment, the method further includes at least the step of delivering an input force to one end of the clamp actuating member so that the clamp actuating member rotates about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member on the clamping member; and then translating the input force into a mechanical clamping force that is greater than the input force. Note that this is accomplished in some embodiments with a levered clamp actuating member and in others with a threaded clamp actuating member. In another further embodiment, the method further includes engaging an extension tool, from outside the box, with the distal end (or the engageable end, such a socket head screw or as noted), of the threaded drive member, disposed inside the box, in order to deliver an input force to the drive member (e.g., screw head) wherein the clamp actuating member may be actuated from a location outside the meter box. In another example embodiment, a portion of the clamping member is reinforced by through hardening. In a further embodiment, second securing member comprises a lock receptacle comprising a rotation restricting stop surface. In still a further embodiment, the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is adapted to receive a barrel lock comprising a body having a rotation restricting stop surface cooperative with the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle to prevent rotation of a barrel lock. In a further example embodiment, the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is removeable from the second securing member.
The content and disclosure of each of the following applications/publications are specifically hereby incorporated by reference: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/378,879, filed Feb. 20, 2009; U.S. Pat. No. 7,176,376, issued Feb. 13, 2007; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/705,653, filed Feb. 12, 2007; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/823,285, filed Apr. 13, 2004; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/434,665, filed May 16, 2006; International Patent Application No. PCT/US2006/018783, filed May 16, 2006 (which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/681,200, filed May 16, 2005, U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/793,104, filed Apr. 19, 2006); U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/681,200, filed May 16, 2005; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/793,104, filed Apr. 19, 2006.
These and other aspects, features, and advantages of example embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the drawings, the descriptions given herein, and the appended claims. Further aspects are also indicated herein in various example embodiments of the invention. However, it will be understood that the above-listed aspects, objectives and/or advantages of example embodiments are intended only as an aid in quickly understanding aspects of the example embodiments, are not intended to limit the embodiments of the invention in any way, and therefore do not form a comprehensive or restrictive list of aspects, objectives, and/or features, and/or advantages.
There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, features of example embodiments of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of example embodiments of invention that will be described hereinafter.
In this respect, before explaining at least one example embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the example embodiments are not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Various example embodiments are capable of other further embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
To the accomplishment of the above and related aspects, example embodiments of the invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be made in the specific construction illustrated.
The drawings as noted below form part of the present specification and are included to further demonstrate certain aspects of example embodiments of the invention. Various other aspects, features and attendant advantages of the embodiments of the invention will become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
FIGS. 22C1-22C4 show a view of a clamping member disposed in a fully clamped and secured position over a sectional view of a wall portion of a meter box.
While the present invention will be described in connection with presently preferred embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents included within the spirit of the invention and as defined in the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONReferring now to
During installation, clamping member 70 is fastened into place using a clamp actuating member, for example, a fastening lever 120, example embodiments of which are described below. Once clamping member 70 is secured, meter box cover 30 is installed such that clamp actuating member 120 and one end of clamping member 70 are disposed entirely inside an enclosed portion of closed meter box 10, while a fastening shelf 110 remains disposed outside the meter box. In an alternative embodiment, fastening shelf 110 fits inside a slot or other opening in lock housing 80, and the meter box 10 and box cover 30 are fastened together by a plunger type fastener 90 inserted through both an aperture 82 formed in a body portion of lock housing 80 and an aperture 130 formed in a body portion of fastening shelf 110.
As seen in
Referring now to
For example, in certain embodiments, engagement member 210 further comprises a clamp 190 having a plurality of engagement surfaces 200, 215. In this particular embodiment, when clamp actuating member 150 is actuated toward a locked position, upper wall portion 140 is securely clamped between engagement surface 215 and clamping member 70 to achieve a reliable and secure installation. In other embodiments, engagement surface 200 also clamps beneath wall portion 140 to ensure a secure fitting. In a further embodiment, engagement surface 215 does not clamp to upper wall portion 140; in this configuration, only engagement surface 200 is secured beneath a portion of wall 140. An isometric view of some of the aforementioned features is shown in greater detail in
Referring again to
Referring now to the example embodiment of
According to one embodiment of the invention, the specific location of notched receiving member 160 permits a terminus end of clamp actuating member 150, when fully rotated and secured, to be contained within an enclosed portion of the meter box even after the box cover has been fully installed. On the other hand, if clamp actuating member 150 is not fully rotated and secured into place, a terminus end of clamp actuating member 150 will protrude from the confines of the meter box, and will therefore not permit final installation of the box cover. In alternative embodiments, notched receiving member 160 is disposed so that the clamp actuating member 150, when fully rotated and secured in place, touches the inside surface of a fully installed box door, but does not interfere with its installation.
In other example embodiments, for example, as seen in
In certain embodiments, clamp actuating member 150 is held in a fully secured position by both a frictional force imposed on notched receiving member 160 when the clamp actuating member 150 is fully turned, and by a spring force inherent in the interaction between the leverage on wall portion 140 imparted by clamp actuating member 150 and clamp 190. In other embodiments, clamp actuating member 150 is held in a fully secured position by means of a separate securing means, for example, by means of a latch or a spring (not shown) disposed between the clamp and the clamp actuating member.
Turning now to
Referring now to
Referring now to
In another example embodiment illustrated in
The meter box cover 620 is typically secured in place by means of a small latch assembly, which functions in structural cooperation with a complementary latch-receiving member disposed on the meter box base 619. The meter box cover 620 is used to secure the meter 628 to the electrical socket (not shown), so that completion of an electrical circuit is ensured, and the meter is reliably prevented from falling out of the meter box socket. The meter box cover 620 also prevents unauthorized persons from tampering with the meter 628. As shown in
Referring now to
The clamping member 602 is generally comprised of multiple flanges 606, 610, 605 with one of the flanges 606 containing a preferably circular aperture 624 and a fastening shelf 604 that also contains a preferably circular aperture 607. Additional flanges may be added or fewer flanges may be used to accomplish the function as described henceforth.
A locking bracket 601 as shown enlarged in
As shown in the exploded view of the embodiment of
In the embodiment of
The directly subsequent discussion of assembly and operation of locking bracket 601 onto base 619 of watthour meter box 627 is made using the example of compression member 630, but resilient compression members such as flexural member 613, or other resilient compression members discussed hereinafter, or compression members such as lobe 734 (e.g., See
Referring to
Now referring to
However, axis of rotation 644 could be angled away from wall 623 e.g., by providing that axis of rotation 644 is at an angle with respect to the z-axis and the x-axis while still perpendicular to the y-axis such as by bending flange 606 inwardly toward the interior of meter box base 619. In this case, axis of rotation 644 may still be perpendicular with respect to an axial direction x. In this case, when fastening lever 603 is rotated, then terminate end engagement surface 640A does not come into contact with wall 623 until near the end of rotation, which occurs when stop surface 641A engages the underside of front flange 621. Thus, in this embodiment, at least one axial direction of axis of rotation 644 is perpendicular to the y-axis and/or wall 623.
As the lever 603 is rotated, the compressible member 630, due to the limited space defined by a lower surface of front flange 621 and wall 623 of the watthour meter box base 619 and the terminate end 640A of the flange 608, will compress. The compression of compressible member 630 ensures a “secure feel” and a tighter fit of the locking bracket to the watthour meter box base. The installer continues to rotate the fastening lever 603 until stop surface 641A engages the inside surface of front flange 621. In a preferred embodiment, the flange 609 of the fastening lever 603 is in a generally parallel position to the flange 610 of the clamping member 602 when stop surface 641A engages the inside surface of front flange 621. The front flange 621 of the meter box base 619 is now trapped between the compression member 630 disposed on flange 608 of the fastening lever 603, and the flange 610 of the clamping member 602. As shown in
Referring to
Once the lid 620 is in place, the aperture 622 in the lock housing 614 is aligned with the fastening shelf 604 of the clamping member 602. The lock housing 614 is then slid onto the fastening shelf 604 of the clamping member 602, shown by movement arrow “D” in
The perpendicular flange 615 of the lock housing 614 prevents meter box lid 620 removal; consequently the meter box lid 620 prevents the fastening lever 603 from rotating to the “open position”. The fastening lever 603, the clamping member 602, the connector 612, lock housing 614, the lid 620, and the meter box base 619, interact together to prevent the removal of both the meter box lid 620 and the entire locking apparatus.
Referring back to
In an alternate embodiment, compressible member 630 may or may not be used. In this alternate embodiment, a different compressible member, comprising a different shape, material, or attachment means as shown in the illustrations, may be disposed on the inside of flange 605 of the clamping member 602. In this embodiment, as the fastening lever 603 is rotated to a “closed position” as previously described, the flange 623 of the watthour meter box base 619 becomes trapped between the terminate end of flange 608 disposed on the fastening lever 603, and the compressible member, performing a similar function as previously described.
In another alternate embodiment, one or more compressible members may or may not be used. Assuming a compressible material is not used, in this embodiment, as the fastening lever 603 is rotated to a “closed position” as previously described, the wall 623 of the meter box base 619 becomes trapped between the terminate end 640 of flange 608 disposed on the fastening lever 603, and the flange 605 of the clamping member 602.
In another alternate embodiment, shown in
In another example embodiment of the lever end 609 shown in
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lever end 609 is in functional cooperation with a portion of a meter box lid 620 such that the lid prevents rotation of the lever to an open position.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus shown in
Another example embodiment of the apparatus further comprises the meter box. For example, the meter box may have the configuration as shown in
Another example embodiment of the apparatus further comprises a locking structure (e.g., 614 or other types of locking structures adaptable for use with the invention) for functional cooperation with the clamping member (see, for example,
Various other example embodiments provide an apparatus that may be adapted for use on a utility service enclosure generally. Such a utility service enclosure may have various configurations, shapes and sizes and be used in the electric utility industry (e.g., a meter box) as well as in the gas, water, cable, TV utility industries or in other utility industries.
The example embodiment shown in
Another example embodiment for securing a cover of an enclosure comprises a locking bracket, wherein the locking bracket further comprises an engagement member and a mounting member. The engagement member preferably comprises a biased engagement flange which is biased to engage a structural portion of the enclosure. In one embodiment, the locking bracket also generally comprises a fastening shelf connected to the mounting member, with the fastening shelf comprising a first securing means. A lock housing is also preferably used and configured to receive at least a portion of the fastening shelf. In this way the lock housing is used with the locking bracket such that the cover is held in place between the mounting member and at least a portion of the lock housing.
In an example embodiment, the locking bracket may also comprise an engagement member connected to an opposing flange, with the engagement member biased to engage, for example, a portion of an enclosure wall (e.g., such as a meter box side wall). In an example embodiment, the engagement member may comprise a biased engagement flange in cooperation with an opposing flange, wherein the opposing flange is preferably adapted to be disposed outside the enclosure (e.g., see
In one example embodiment, the biased engagement flange may be configured to engage the inner ledge of the side wall of an enclosure such as a watthour meter box (e.g., see
In another embodiment, a locking bracket may further comprise a reinforcing clip member adapted to be mounted over at least a portion of the opposing flange and preferably at least a portion of an inner flange (such as, in one example embodiment, a biased engagement flange) with the inner flange being configured in functional cooperation with the opposing flange to inhibit undesired flexing of the inner flange and/or the opposing flange as well as to reinforce the side wall engagement to prevent tampering or unwanted removal of the locking bracket. The reinforcing clip may also be configured for slidable engagement with at least some portion of the opposing flange and/or inner flange to inhibit undesired flexing of the inner flange and/or the opposing flange.
Turning now to
As shown in
In an example embodiment, the surrounding member 1036 comprises a first panel 1038A comprising a first clamping engagement surface 1040A and a second panel 1038B comprising a second clamping engagement surface 1040B. The first and second panels 1038A, 1038B are spaced apart, and, in some embodiments are substantially parallel with respect to each other and adapted to pivot in a plane oriented generally perpendicular to the side of wall 1016 of the meter box. The surrounding member 1036 further comprises a grip flange 1042. The grip flange further comprises a grip surface 1044 adapted for engagement with the side wall. The grip flange is carried for pivotal movement by the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B, and in some embodiments, the grip surface 1044 may have a rectangular face extending the width of the grip flange such that the grip surface 1044 is oriented substantially parallel with respect to the longitudinal centerline 1021 of angled portion 1020 of the side wall as shown in
As noted, the clamping member 1010 also comprises a clamp actuating member 1028 adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member 1036. The clamping member 1010 also further comprises a fastening shelf 1030 as noted. In one example embodiment, the fastening shelf 1030 comprises a fastening shelf member 1046, wherein the fastening shelf member is disposed in generally opposing relation with respect to the surrounding member 1036. In this way, fastening shelf member 1046 serves generally as a force-bearing member, when the clamping member is actuated to contact and pivot the surrounding member 1036 so as to bear against and transmit a clamping force against the side wall 1016.
In a further example embodiment, the fastening shelf member 1046 comprises a shelf flange 1048, wherein at least a portion of the grip surface 1044 is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange 1048 so as to enable offset gripping forces to be applied against the side wall. Such a configuration enhances the clamping forces that may be exerted against the side wall when captured between the grip surface 1044 and the shelf flange. In another embodiment, the fastening shelf member 1046 further comprises a bracket flange 1050. The bracket flange 1050 is ideally positioned substantially adjacent the upper portion 1018 of the side wall 1016 in generally opposing relation with respect to the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B of the surrounding member 1036. With this configuration, the bracket flange 1050 serves generally as a force-bearing member, when the clamping member is actuated and bears against the surrounding member 1036 causing the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B of the surrounding member 1036 in turn to bear against and transmit a clamping force against the upper portion 1018 of the side wall. As shown in
As noted above, in some example embodiments, both the grip surface 1044 and the engagement surfaces 1040A, 1040B of the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B substantially simultaneously engage the side wall to impart a clamping force. In another embodiment, only the engagement surfaces 1040A, 1040B of the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B initially and simultaneously engage the side wall, as noted above, to impart a clamping force, and if certain upward prying forces are applied to the clamping member to attempt to pry the clamping member past the angled portion of the wall, then the grip surface 1044 will bear against the angled portion of the wall in a tandem engagement manner to resist movement so as to keep the clamping member secured to the side wall. In still another embodiment, only the grip surface 1044 as noted, engages the side wall proximate the angled portion to effect a clamping force. In a further embodiment, only the only the engagement surfaces 1040A, 1040B of the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B engage the side wall to exert a clamping force.
Turning now to FIG. 22C1, and example embodiment is shown, wherein the grip surface 1044 further comprises at least two gripping, or force-concentrating, protuberances 1056A, 1056B, such that at least some of the clamping force is concentrated over a certain region or area to impart desired flexure, shear or compression forces to the side wall during clamping. In an example embodiment, the gripping protuberances 1056A, 1056B are selectively disposed so as to substantially concentrate the clamping force over a certain region or area of the interior surface of the wall in order to create offset or direct clamping forces with respect to the opposing shelf flange as desired. It should be noted that the gripping protuberances may be disposed at various locations along the grip surface as needed to suitably tailor the clamping forces in order to place a desired region of the side wall in flexure (or bending), shear or compression. In this way, at least a portion of the clamping force is transmitted to the side wall and is concentrated on a localized area of the side wall in order to improve gripping performance, with the two force-concentrating protuberances being selectively located on a grip surface 1044. It should be noted however that one or a plurality of protuberances may be disposed along the grip surface 1044 so as to create various gripping configurations. For example, in some embodiments, two protuberances are selectively disposed along the gripping surface and spaced apart in such a way that they are located outside the width of the opposing shelf flange as will be explained in more detail herein. In other example embodiments, the two protuberances may be spaced apart in such a way that they are located within the width of the opposing shelf flange as will be explained in more detail herein. In addition, in further example embodiments, the gripping surface may also comprise only one gripping protuberance, and in still other example embodiments the gripping surface may comprise three, four or more gripping protuberances (in some examples, similar 1056A, 1056B) to selectively concentrate force against the meter box wall. In some example embodiments, at least a portion of the side wall is flexed to conform the portion of the wall, in part, to the configuration or shape of the protuberances, wherein certain translational movement of the clamping member (for example, with respect to the centerline 1021) is inhibited when subject to prying forces.
It will also be appreciated that the protuberances may comprise teeth having a variety of configurations. In one example embodiment, a tooth may have a 4-sided configuration such as that shown in
Referring particularly now to
In one example embodiment, wall 1016 is securely clamped between grip surface 1044 and fastening shelf 1030, with the optimum distance between the side of the shelf flange and the gripping edge designated as “B” in
It should be recognized that distance “B” may range from about 0.03 to 0.125 inch. Also, the protuberances may also be disposed at the peripheral ends 1062A, 1062E of the grip surface 1044, or the grip surface and protuberances may be extended beyond the width of the panels 1038A, 1038B. However, again, as noted earlier, it should also be recognized that in other embodiments, one or both of the gripping protuberances 1056A, 1056B may be disposed in direct opposing relating with respect to the shelf flange such that the angled portion is gripped generally directly between the gripping protuberances 1056A, 1056B and the shelf flange. In addition, in other embodiments, the protuberances may be disposed and the shelf flange may be configured as shown in FIG. 22C2, including 1056A′ 1056B′ and 1048′, respectively and in FIG. 22C3, including 1056A″, 1056B″ and 1048″, respectively, which represent somewhat similar components to similar reference numbers as shown in FIG. 22C1, to impart various engagement configurations offset inside and outside with respect to the width of the shelf flange. (Note that aperture 1066 is not included in some embodiments, depending, for example, on the type of clamp actuating member used (for example, in
Referring again to
In the example embodiment illustrated in
Turning now to
It should be recognized that distance “E” may range from about 0.02 to 0.125 inch. Also, the engagement surfaces may be disposed further outwardly away from the sides of the bracket flange or within the width of the sides of the bracket flange. And again, as noted earlier, it should also be recognized that in other embodiments, the engagement surfaces may be disposed in direct opposing relation with respect to the bracket flange such that at least the upper portion (and in some embodiments the angled portion) is gripped generally directly between the engagement surfaces and the bracket flange (and also, for example, a portion of the shelf flange). In addition, in other embodiments, the engagement surfaces may be disposed and the bracket flange may be configured such that the engagement with the upper portion is similar to that shown with the gripping flange in FIGS. 22C2-22C3, to impart various engagement configurations offset inside and outside with respect to the width of the bracket (and/or shelf flange). Referring again to
Additionally, as noted above, in some example embodiments, both the grip surface and the engagement surfaces 1040A, 1040B of the surrounding member 1036 substantially simultaneously engage the side wall to impart a clamping force. As noted, in some embodiments, either of the grip surfaces or engagement surfaces, or both, may comprise selectively spaced gripping protuberances (similar to 1056A, 1056B) or a grip edge, points, dimples or other surfaces or surface irregularities fostering gripping or clamping. It should also be noted that the grip edge or surfaces may also be oriented with regard to any portion of the side wall in a longitudinal or transverse configuration with respect to, for example, the centerline 1021 of the angled portion. As such, the grip and engagement surfaces 1040A, 1040B may or may not include gripping protuberances (such as 1056A, 1056B), grip edges or otherwise as noted above. As noted briefly, in some embodiments, the engagement surface protuberances are configured similarly to the gripping protuberances or edge. The gripping edges of the engagement surfaces may also be more elongated and substantially vertically-oriented, and in some embodiments transverse, with respect to the centerline 1021 of the wall 1020 and upper wall 1018. However, in certain embodiments, only the engagement surfaces, including any protuberances or edges, of the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B initially and simultaneously engage the side wall, as noted above, to impart a clamping force, and if certain upward prying forces are applied to the clamping member to attempt to pry the clamping member past the angled portion of the wall, then the grip surface, including any protuberances, edges, grip surface or otherwise as noted above, will bear against the angled portion of the wall in a tandem engagement manner to resist movement of the clamping member to keep it secured to the side wall. It should be recognized, that any such engagement may impart offset or direct clamping forces depending on the spacing and configuration of the engagement features as noted above and hereinafter. In still another embodiment, only the grip surface, with any gripping modifications as noted above, engages the side wall proximate the angled portion to effect a clamping force. In a further embodiment, only the engagement surfaces 1040A, 1040B of the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B, with any gripping modifications as noted above, engage the side wall to exert a clamping force. It should also be noted that in an example embodiment, the first and second panels 1038A, 1038B or support walls serve to stiffen the surrounding member and grip flange to allow additional force to be concentrated against the side wall. The clamping member as noted herein may be formed from a through hardened or reinforced material which helps suitably stiffen the clamp and reduces deformation of clamp so as to better concentrate clamping forces against the side wall. This would, in some embodiments, enable deformation of the side wall which more securely enables the clamping member to be secured to the side wall. In addition, when upper or angled portions, for example are held in flexure, the clamping member is inhibited from sliding. In addition, in an example embodiment using a variable-force, threaded clamp actuating member, any sliding or movement may be further inhibited.
Referring again to FIGS. 21A-22C3, in one example embodiment, the actuating member may comprise a lever. It should be noted that certain mechanical and leverage advantages and features with respect to this embodiment are similar to those discussed earlier regarding
In another example embodiment, an extended moment arm for clamp actuation is provided. For example, as shown in
Another example embodiment, shown in
Turning now to
In another example embodiment, modified clamping surfaces are adapted to create a contour around which the thin walls of the enclosure must deform and comply. The cooperating components thus improve the clamping hold on thin steel that is typically painted, which generally presents a high lubricity surface.
It should also be further noted that the clamp actuating member shown in
In another example embodiment, the fastening shelf 1030 comprises structure adapted for functional cooperation with the lock housing for securing the clamping member to a meter box as briefly noted. The fastening shelf 1030 comprises a first securing means and the lock housing comprises a second securing means. In an example embodiment. the fastening shelf 1030, is shown in
Referring now to
For example, in one example embodiment, during installation, the clamping member is fastened into place using a threaded clamp actuating member, for example, such as screw-type member, or thumb screw, or as shown in
As seen in
In another non-limiting example embodiment, the fastening shelf is integrally formed with the bracket portion of the clamping member, however, in other embodiments, the fastening shelf or other structures of the clamping member may be formed from separate bracket flanges, members and components as noted above, fastened together.
Referring again to
In an example configuration, the side wall 1016, including the upper, angled, and lower portions 1018, 1020, 1022, respectively, is formed from metal described further herein, and all four clamping engagements result from clamping member 1010 deforming the side wall 1016, which resists deformation with spring force; for example, various components of the clamping member have a certain elastic property such that a given component when used to impart a clamping force would, in effect, spring back to its original form after the clamping force is removed. In this embodiment, as shown in
Referring again to
In addition, another example embodiment, a method is provided for resisting tampering with a meter box, wherein the box includes at least a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of walls comprises a side wall comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, and an angled portion disposed proximately between the upper portion and lower portion of the side wall, and the method includes at least: mounting a clamping member on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member includes at least a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member adapted for pivotable movement outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises a grip flange, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member. In the above example embodiment, the clamping member further comprises a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, wherein at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange. The method further includes at least: actuating the clamping member in order to transmit a force to the side wall; opposing the actuating of the clamping member, wherein a clamping force is transmitted to the side wall; (and in some embodiments, concentrating at least some of the clamping force transmitted to the side wall); offsetting the opposing of the clamping force transmitted to the side wall; providing a lock housing comprising a second securing means; disposing the lock housing in functional cooperation with the clamping member, and securing the clamping member using the lock housing. It should be noted that in a further example embodiment, the clamping member and housing may be mounted and installed from a location entirely outside of the meter box. The method may also include interlocking the clamping member fastening shelf and lock housing with a suitable lock (such as a barrel lock, plunger lock, keyless insertion lock (also referred to as the “SnapLock”, such as that provided in application Ser. No. 13/070,456, incorporated by reference herein)) to secure the cover to the meter box base. The method may further comprise rotating the clamp actuating member about a rotational axis established by disposition of an engagement member disposed on a body portion of said clamping member, which in some embodiments may be a lever (or toggle) or a threaded clamp actuating member. In another embodiment, the clamp actuating member further comprises a threaded drive member disposed proximal the first end of the body portion of the bracket and further comprising rotating the threaded drive member about a rotational axis, and further comprising driving the pivotable surrounding member about a pivotal axis established by disposition of the grip surface on the pivotable surrounding member, and then further comprising disposing the grip surface, wherein the location of gripping against the side wall is established by disposition of the grip surface on the pivotable surrounding member by a distance R1 (as indicated in
In another example embodiment, the clamping member, as well as the housing in some embodiments, may be formed from a higher carbon steel that is through hardened and tempered to provide significant structural strength and, thereby, improve the ability of the clamping member to hold a high-force clamp on side wall of an enclosure, such as a meter box in some example embodiments. In other example embodiments of the invention, a metal stamping operation performed on fully annealed forms draw quality 1050 carbon steel sheet metal is used to form the clamping members. The parts are then assembled and closed in a final forming operation. The assembly is then heat treated and tempered in oil to a Rockwell C hardness specification range of about 40-43, in a non-limiting example embodiment, then plated with cadmium chromate for corrosion resistance. However, a broader range may be from about 37 to 53 Rockwell Hardness in a non-limiting example embodiment. It should also be noted, however, that the mechanical properties of suitable rigidity and toughness may also be achieved using many alternative sheet metals. While some stainless steels are mechanically suitable, such a material may not be as cost-effective. Typical aluminum is generally mechanically unsuitable. Plain carbon steels are typically the most economical and, therefore, ideally suited in some example embodiments. Plain low carbon steels (<0.25% carbon) are highly ductile and hardening is usually done as a surface treatment for wear resistance. Carburizing a low carbon steel for a long period of time can create a thick case depth that can substantially improve the mechanical properties of the part or component and make it suitable for this design and configuration, but the required treatment time typically renders this process less economical than using a higher carbon steel. Plain medium carbon steels (<0.25% to 0.55% carbon) are usually used in the hardened and tempered condition. In an example embodiment, a suitable material (from this broad class) is 1050, which has a carbon content range of about 0.470-0.55% carbon. Achievable hardness correlates with carbon. Steel with 0.25% carbon could achieve the hardness desired, but would be too brittle. The higher carbon of 1050, which can achieve HRC >60, allows for significant tempering. This steel is readily available, economic and compatible with manufacturing processes. This material is then subject to a heat treatment that suits all requirements. Other example embodiments may include steel with carbon content in the range of about 0.40% to 0.45%. As stated above, material selection including 1050 plain carbon steel is ideally cost-effective. It should also be noted that alloying materials could be included such as nickel, silicon, manganese, chromium molybdenum, vanadium and boron which can increase hardenability. As such, carburized, through carburized, tool steel, and microalloy materials may be used in some example embodiments.
The clamping member, in one example embodiment, is formed from a material, for example as noted above, that is suitably rigid and tough so as to withstand various levels of clamping force imparted to a side wall using the clamping member. With such a configuration, a side wall may be deformably clamped between the surrounding member 1036 and fastening shelf, gripping at least a portion of the side wall of a meter box, wherein the at least a portion of the side wall, for example as shown in
Referring now to
In addition,
In an example embodiment, the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is adapted to receive a barrel lock comprising a body having a rotation restricting stop surface cooperative with the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle to prevent rotation of a barrel lock. In another example embodiment, the second securing member described above comprises a lock receptacle comprising a rotation restricting stop surface. In a further embodiment, as noted earlier, the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is adapted to receive a barrel lock comprising a body having a rotation restricting stop surface cooperative with the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle to prevent rotation of a barrel lock. Other embodiments further comprise a rotationally-actuated barrel lock. In addition, as noted, in some embodiments, the rotation restricting stop surface of the lock receptacle is removeable from the second securing member.
Turning now to
Turning now to
It should be understood that while descriptions and application representations apply to meter boxes, these devices could be used on many enclosures of similar configuration and design that may contain wires or other valuable material that must be protected from theft or tampering. Such applications may include traffic light enclosures, substation enclosures or the like.
It should be noted that the design described does not limit the scope of the embodiments of invention; the number of various elements may change, or various components may be added or removed to the above-described concept.
The foregoing disclosure and description of embodiments of the invention is illustrative and explanatory of the above and variations thereof, and it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that various changes in the design, organization, order of operation, means of operation, equipment structures and location, methodology, the use of mechanical equivalents, such as different types of components than as illustrated whereby different steps may be utilized, as well as in the details of the illustrated construction or combinations of features of the various elements may be made without departing from the spirit of the embodiments of the invention. As well, the drawings are intended to describe various concepts of embodiments of the invention so that presently preferred embodiments of the invention will be plainly disclosed to one of skill in the art but are not intended to be manufacturing level drawings or renditions of final products and may include simplified conceptual views as desired for easier and quicker understanding or explanation of embodiments of the invention. As well, the relative size and arrangement of the components may be varied from that shown and the embodiments of the invention still operate well within the spirit of the embodiments of the invention as described hereinbefore and in the appended claims. Thus, various changes and alternatives may be used that are contained within the spirit of the embodiments of the invention. It is therefore desired that the invention not be limited to these embodiments, and it is intended that the appended claims cover all such modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
Accordingly, the foregoing specification is provided for illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to describe all possible aspects of the example embodiments of the invention. It also will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that certain various changes in the ordering of steps, ranges, interferences, spacings, components, hardware, and/or attributes and parameters, as well as in the details of the illustrations or combinations of features of the methods and system discussed herein, may be made without departing from the spirit of the embodiments of the invention. Moreover, while various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that changes to the description, and various other modifications, omissions and additions may also be made without departing from either the spirit or scope thereof.
Claims
1. An apparatus for resisting tampering with a meter box, the meter box comprising a cover and a base, the base comprising a plurality of walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of walls comprises a side wall comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, and an angled portion disposed between the upper portion and lower portion of the side wall, the apparatus comprising:
- a clamping member comprising a bracket adapted to be mounted on a side wall of a meter box, wherein the clamping member further comprises a clamp comprising a surrounding member adapted for pivotable movement outside and around at least a part of the bracket of the clamping member, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises a grip flange; a clamp actuating member adapted to transmit a force to the surrounding member; a fastening shelf comprising a first securing means, and wherein the fastening shelf further comprises a fastening shelf member comprising a shelf flange, and wherein at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to be disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the shelf flange; and
- a lock housing comprising a second securing means.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shelf flange has a given width, and wherein the at least a portion of the grip flange comprises first and second protuberances selectively spaced apart wider than the width of the shelf flange.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fastening shelf member further comprises a bracket flange, and wherein the surrounding member further comprises first and second support panels disposed in substantially offset opposing relation with respect to the bracket flange.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first and second panels comprise at least first and second respective engagement surfaces adapted to engage the upper portion of the wall, and wherein the at least a portion of the grip flange is adapted to engage the angled portion of the wall, wherein the surrounding member is adapted to simultaneously distribute a plurality of clamping engagement forces to the wall.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the side wall is flexed when clamped between the surrounding member and the fastening shelf member.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the clamping member is reinforced by through hardening.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second securing member comprises a lock receptacle comprising a rotation restricting stop surface.
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 27, 2012
Publication Date: Sep 19, 2013
Patent Grant number: 10651634
Applicant: DeWalch Technologies, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Inventors: Tyler Dean Todd, II (Houston, TX), Aditya Kumar Palthi (Houston, TX)
Application Number: 13/686,881
